The International prize pool boosted $1M by Dota 2 players

Contestants in Valve's worldwide Dota 2 championship tournament, The International, will be competing for a prize pool totaling more than $2.6 million, thanks to contributions from fellow players.

The pool currently houses seven monetary goals, beginning with $1.7 million and ending at $3.2 million. By purchasing Interactive Compendiums, contributors have boosted the original $1.6 million pool to its current status.

The Compendium, a virtual book that helps players stay caught up on tournament events, went on sale back in May. Compendium owners can vote on community polls, predict winners, win items and more. The Compendium was also updated to include fantasy teams and player cards.

As the pool grows, contributors unlock new goals. Already achieved goals reward compendium owners with limited battle boosts, items, skills and more. The final goal of $3.2 million allows Compendium owners to select the next hero shipped in Dota 2.

The International's main event takes place in Seattle, Wash., from Aug. 7-11.